Are you one of the homeowners who put off chimney sweeps for as long as they can? We get it, it isn’t exactly a chore that’s at the forefront of everyone’s mind — but that doesn’t make it any less essential.
Not only is a sweep important for better chimney performance but also for the well-being of you and your family. Let’s take a look at what happens if you don’t get a chimney sweep in Boston.
Risks of Dirty Chimneys
Whether you use your fireplace regularly or only during colder months, buildup can lead to serious hazards. Here’s why you need a chimney sweep in Boston ASAP:
Fire Hazard
Each time you use your fireplace, creosote buildups in your chimney. Creosote is the byproduct of combustion. It forms in three stages: first as a fine soot, then as a sticky substance, and finally as a hardened, glaze-like coating. The final stage is the most dangerous and difficult to remove, requiring professional intervention.
Creosote is a highly flammable material, and once ignited, it can melt the mortar, crack the tiles, and cause the chimney to collapse. Once the fire escapes the masonry, it can also easily burn the building materials, causing significant losses. This is why you should never ignore the signs of a dirty chimney.
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Pest Infestation
Chimneys are a highly desirable habitat for pests and animals. Small animals such as birds, raccoons, and squirrels often make their homes in unused and dirty chimneys. Unfortunately, they can sometimes get trapped and harmed when seeking shelter in chimneys during colder months.
These animals can create blockages that make it difficult for smoke to escape, potentially leading to carbon monoxide poisoning, which is extremely dangerous for residents. Their nests are highly flammable and can pose a serious fire hazard.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
A lesser-known fact about carbon monoxide is that sometimes houses are too tightly sealed, preventing proper chimney drafting. This reverse airflow can cause CO to enter the home. Once carbon monoxide sneaks into your home undetected, it poses serious risks.
Some common symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, disorientation, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Known as a silent killer, this gas has no color or odor, making it even more dangerous. It can severely harm your health and even be fatal. To ensure safety, experts recommend scheduling a chimney sweep at least once a year, especially before the colder months. So, besides getting your regular chimney sweeps in Boston, you should install a carbon monoxide detector
Reduced Heating Efficiency
Chimneys clogged with soot, creosote, and debris can restrict air flow, making ventilation harder for your fireplace. We all want to save money, but when your chimney is working extra hard to keep the home warm, it needs extra fuel — burning a hole in your pocket.
To improve your fireplace’s efficiency and to help you save on heating bills, you should get regular chimney sweeps in Boston. If a year has passed since your last sweep, it’s recommended to schedule an inspection and cleaning as soon as possible to deal with this risk.
Health Issues
If the chimney is not ventilating properly, the particles from the creosote will be in the air, causing respiratory problems. Since fireplaces are typically situated in high-traffic areas such as the living room, all members of your family may be affected.
The toxic substance can irritate your lungs and cause asthma as well. On the other hand, your skin and eyes are susceptible to irritation as well. The soot can cause a bad burning sensation to the skin and, over time, can actually lead to chemical burns.
Structural Damage
If you avoid getting regular chimney sweeps in Boston, it can deteriorate your chimney’s flue liner. A damaged liner can expose your home to heat and flames. Once your chimney has structural issues whether due to creosote buildup or other debris like animal nesting, it becomes more susceptible to damage.
Water may seep into the chimney, causing further structural issues. This can cause long-term damage to brick or mortar as they are prone to cracking and leaks. Such structural problems often lead to costly repairs. Want to avoid that? A regular chimney inspection and sweep is what you need.
Keep Your Fireplace Safe with Delta Clean Air
Catching problems early and keeping your chimney safe from stubborn creosote can save you from spending thousands of dollars on costly chimney replacements while keeping your home and family safe.
Do you need qualified chimney cleaners who believe you deserve the best service in Boston? Look no further. Reach out to the leading air duct cleaning company today to ensure a healthier and more efficient home environment. We offer immediate and thorough inspections and chimney sweeps in Boston.
At Delta Clean Air we take pride in offering top-notch service. Our knowledgeable and most trusted chimney professionals ensure your system is functioning safely and efficiently. Don’t wait — call us now.
